Waiting for the results from a biopsy, MRI, or screening can be a harrowing experience for those faced with a possible cancer diagnosis. It’s important to take care of yourself while waiting for test results. This entails managing anxiety the best you possibly can. Below, find ways to cope with the stress before you receive your results.

4 Ways to Deal With Anxiety While Waiting for Test Results

1. Spend Time With the Right People

No matter what your results state, you should try to maintain a positive outlook. Spend time with the people you love and who are prone to positive thinking. Those with negative points of view will only inflame stress and anxiety, so limit exposure for your own well-being. You might also want to spend time with people who have experienced this situation before, as they will be understanding of the process. 

2. Plan for the Worst Case Scenario

Think about what might happen if you receive poor test results after your biopsy. Put a plan in place for how you’ll deal with the news, and steps you can take after. This might mean looking into treatment options. Keep in mind that many types of cancer are highly treatable, especially when caught early. If you are thinking about this situation, you will have a comfortable plan B set in place. 

3. Enlist Help

Make sure you have moral support on the day you’re scheduled to receive results. If you have an appointment, bring along a trusted friend or family member. If you’re receiving results by phone, ask the person to come over when you expect to receive the call. This will provide comfort for any news you may receive. 

4. Shift Your Focus 

The best thing to do when you’re scared is to distract yourself. While you can’t make your biopsy or MRI test results come any sooner, you can preoccupy yourself with fun activities while you wait. Spend a day at the beach or go out to dinner with your friends. Maybe try out an activity that frightens you. If that is conquering heights, consider spending an afternoon riding roller coasters at a local amusement park.

Main Street Radiology understands that awaiting the results of a biopsy or other medical tests is stressful. That’s why this trusted clinic goes above and beyond to help patients deal with medical anxiety. This Flushing, NY clinic has over five decades of experience and offers a wide range of diagnostic services. This includes PET/CT scans, bone density testing, lung screening, and ultrasounds. Schedule a biopsy test today by calling (718) 428-1500. If you’d like to learn more about the complete list of procedures, visit them online.